ThaiPop Restaurant in Downtown Rochester
A Favorite Spot
In Downtown Rochester, ThaiPop has become a favorite spot for food lovers seeking authentic Thai cuisine with a creative twist. At the helm of ThaiPop is Annie Balow, a passionate chef and entrepreneur who has put her own personal spin on every dish, creating a unique dining experience.
A Creative Force
When asked about her favorite part of running ThaiPop, Annie lights up, revealing that she loves being involved in every aspect of the restaurant. “I get to use my creativity not only in the kitchen but also in creating our signature cocktails and mocktails,” she shares. For her, the joy comes from constantly experimenting with new dishes and ideas, which she brings to life through seasonal specials. “It’s always fun to come up with something new and exciting!”
A Menu That Reflects Passion
Annie’s passion for food is evident in every dish at ThaiPop. While she finds it hard to pick a favorite, one current standout for her is the Tamarind Shrimp—a crispy shrimp dish drizzled with a tangy tamarind and fish sauce. “[It’s] super flavorful. The crunch of the skin with the chewiness of the shrimp, it’s so good,” she says. Additionally, the restaurant offers fan-favorites like Pad Thai and Pad See Ew (on their secret menu), catering to diners looking for familiar Thai classics.
A Family-Oriented Staff and Atmosphere
Annie takes great pride in the close-knit team she’s built, with a majority of staff members being with the restaurant since day one. “We become not just a workplace, this is basically their home too,” Annie explains. The staff’s warmth and friendliness are palpable from the moment you walk in, creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back for more.
The Charm of Downtown
For Annie, one of the joys of operating ThaiPop is its Downtown location. “Being Downtown is about diversity,” she says. “I think it’s the charm of Downtown.”
Exciting Things on the Horizon
ThaiPop will soon open their seasonal speakeasy, Shhhh…We Don’t Talk About It, offering guests a hidden gem to enjoy craft cocktails in a unique, intimate setting. In addition, the restaurant is gearing up to launch its winter tasting menu in November, giving foodies and Thai food enthusiasts even more to look forward to in the coming months.
More about ThaiPop
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